[ECOLOG-L] TeaComposition H2O- Call for participation in global aquatic decay initiative

[Stacey Trevathan-Tackett]

This is an invitation for participation in the TeaComposition H2O initiative 
that aims to expand the current TeaComposition initiative to marine and 
freshwater aquatic ecosystems. TeaComposition H2O is led by the Blue Carbon 
Lab's Drs Peter Macreadie and Stacey Trevathan-Tackett from Deakin University 
in Australia (http://bluecarbonlab.org/teacomposition-h2o/). The Blue Carbon 
Lab specialises in carbon cycling in aquatic ecosystems from the microbes and 
gas flux to ecosystem restoration and carbon offset feasibility assessments.



Litter decomposition represents one of the largest fluxes in the global carbon 
cycle. The TeaComposition initiative lead by Dr Ika Djukic and colleagues aims 
to 'study the long-term litter decomposition and hence the long-term C dynamics 
(both the litter C losses and C storage) and its key drivers at the present and 
predicted climate scenarios worldwide'. TeaComposition is terrestrial-based and 
is currently covering 300 sites and 9 zonobiomes! For more info on the 
terrestrial TeaComposition, contact Dr Djukic at ika.dju...@umweltbundesamt.at.





Project highlights:

REQUIREMENTS: The following are required to be kept constant to ensure that 
incubation parameters are parallel for all sites. Any deviations must be 
discussed a priori.

* Contact 
s.trevathantack...@deakin.edu.au for a 
link to the signup sheet.

* Start of Incubation: May-June 2017 (N. Hemisphere) and 
November-December 2017 (S. Hemisphere)

* Sampling times: 3 mo, 6 mo, 1 yr, 2 yr, 3 yr. There is some 
flexibility to sampling (e.g. 11-13 weeks for 3 month sampling or 23-25 weeks 
for 6 month sampling).

* Tea type: Use of the green and red tea we provide.

* Basic environmental parameter description: Ecosystem type including 
plant biodiversity, GPS, inundation, soil temperature (preferred), water or air 
temperature, sediment description.

* Sediment depth: Burial below the rhizosphere or root/rhizome area (if 
possible, depending on the vegetation at the site) but above the clay layer. 
This is be approximately 10-15 cm depending on the environment. Also, these 
layers will likely be anoxic for inundated sediments, so it's important to 
record changes in inundation.

IN THE LAB & FIELD:

* Weighing of tea before deployment and after retrieval

* Cleaning of tea bags after retrieval and before drying/weighing are 
critical to not losing tea or artificially gaining mass due to attached sediment

* Preserving DNA samples for future microbial analyses (optional). This 
is vital for maintaining the quality of DNA if you're able to opt in for 
sampling the microbes.



TeaComposition H2O is a quickly growing initiative, and we hope to hear from 
you soon.

Cheers,
Stacey

Stacey Trevathan-Tackett, PhD
Associate Research Fellow
TeaComposition H2O Initiative
Blue Carbon Lab

Centre for Integrative Ecology
School of Life and Environmental Sciences
Deakin University, Burwood Campus
221 Burwood Hwy, Burwood, VIC 3125 Australia
Office: 03 9244 3899
Mobile: 0424483513
E-mail: 
s.trevathantack...@deakin.edu.au
Website: http://bluecarbonlab.org/Lab-Members/stacey-trevathan-tackett/


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[ECOLOG-L] PostGIS Workshop: Next Generation Data Management in Move ment Ecology (Florida, May 8–12 2017)

[Mathieu Basille]

* Venue: Fort Lauderdale REC, Davie, Florida

* Contact: Mathieu Basille (basi...@ufl.edu)

* Instructors: Simona Picardi, David Bucklin & Mathieu Basille (UF WEC)

* Guest lecturers: Anne Berger (Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife
Research, Germany), Hamish Campbell (Charles Darwin University, Australia),
Francesca Cagnacci (Fondazione Edmund Mach, Italy) & Ferdinando Urbano
(Independent researcher, Italy)

* Attendance: Reserved for Natural Resource managers (for a fee) and UF
students (with tuition waiver). Limited seats are available on a first come
– first served basis. Natural Resource managers, please register on
Eventbrite.com [1].

* More info on: http://ase-research.org/training/PostGIS_2017/


Recent technological progress has allowed ecologists to obtain a huge
amount and diversity of animal movement data sets of increasing spatial and
temporal resolution and size, together with complex associated information
related to the environmental context, such as habitat types based on remote
sensing, population density, and weather. Based on several years of
experience on multiple species, this intensive five-day workshop is
designed to teach participants how to handle, manage, store and retrieve
movement data in a spatial database, and how to eventually feed them to
analysis tools. In the first part of the course, participants will be
exposed to basics of spatial databases for wildlife tracking data, using
PostgreSQL/PostGIS, the reference free and open-source database system. The
second part will focus on the integration of environmental data in the
process. The third part will tackle the specifics of movement data, and how
to connect the database to the R statistical environment for analysis. Step
by step, using reproducible, hands-on exercises that will be released
on-line, we will provide a complete and seamless procedure from raw data to
final analysis that will enable participants to fully manage and integrate
complex animal movement data sets. Although the workshop is intended for a
wide audience, basic knowledge of SQL, spatial databases and R are highly
recommended to get the best experience.

Participants will have to bring their own laptop computers, with necessary
software installed (instructions for open-source software will be provided).

Reference: Urbano, F. & Cagnacci, F. (ed.) (2014) Spatial Database for GPS
Wildlife Tracking Data: A Practical Guide to Creating a Data Management
System with PostgreSQL/PostGIS and R. Springer, 257 pp. DOI:
10.1007/978-3-319-03743-1


-- 

Mathieu Basille

basi...@ufl.edu | http://ase-research.org/basille
+1 954-577-6314 | University of Florida FLREC

  « Le tout est de tout dire, et je manque de mots
  Et je manque de temps, et je manque d'audace. »
  — Paul Éluard

[ECOLOG-L] Visiting Assistant Lecturer Environmental Science, Biddeford, Maine

[Noah Perlut]

The Department of Environmental Studies at the University of New England
(www.une.edu) invites applications for a one-year, full-time Visiting
Assistant Lecturer, beginning August 2017. We encourage applications from
candidates with experience in the following fields: alternative energy,
environmental health, climate change, or sustainable forestry. The candidate
will join along-established, enthusiastic academic department with 5 tenured
faculty and 2 lecturers offering majors in Environmental Sciences and
Environmental Studies. The College of Arts & Sciences is dedicated to
fostering environmental awareness in all students.
The candidate will teach 4 classes a semester, including an introductory
course in Environmental Issues (a Core Curriculum course for all College of
Arts & Sciences students) and upper-level Environmental Science/Studies
electives. Teaching duties may include sophomore-level courses, as needed,
for majors. The position also involves department-level service.
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the
position is filled.
For more information about the department, please visit our website at
http://www.une.edu/cas/envstudies/ 
or contact Dr. Pamela Morgan, Department Chair, at pmor...@une.edu
Completion of a master’s or doctoral degree and teaching experience in a
field related to the environment is required. Candidates should provide
evidence of excellence in teaching.

[ECOLOG-L] Positions Available for Botany and Wildlife Field Crews outside Las Vegas, NV

[Amy Gladding]

For complete position descriptions and to apply, please follow the links
below.

*Botany Field Team Lead*

http://crcareers.thegreatbasininstitute.org/careers/careers.aspx?rf=ECOLOG=2017-ACI-009

In cooperation with the U.S. Forest Service Humboldt-Toiyabe National
Forest, the Great Basin Institute is recruiting a Botany Field Team Lead to
join our AmeriCorps program. Working cooperatively with a GBI/USFS Research
Coordinator as part of a larger crew (consisting of 3 Botany Field
Technicians, and occasionally 1 Wildlife crew lead and 2 technicians). The
Field Lead will help to coordinate and implement a variety of
project-specific biological surveys and habitat restoration projects. The
Field Lead will be responsible for the working directly with the Research
Coordinator conducting project activities, including ensuring adherence to
agreed-upon protocols and procedures, serving as a positive role model for
other field team members, and facilitating accurate completion and
documentation of project efforts.

*Botany Field Technician*

http://crcareers.thegreatbasininstitute.org/careers/careers.aspx?rf=ECOLOG=2017-ACI-010

In cooperation with the U.S. Forest Service Humboldt-Toiyabe National
Forest, the Great Basin Institute is recruiting three (3) Botany Field
Technicians to join our AmeriCorps program. The Technicians will work
cooperatively as part of a team to support a variety of botany,
restoration, and avian biology projects. Project work will occur primarily
on the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area (SMNRA). The Technicians
will work on a number of projects, including surveys for plant and animal
species of interest to determine presence and minimize impacts to these
species. Primary foci for surveys will include rare plants and butterfly
habitat. Restoration and enhancement activities may include: identification
and documentation of disturbed locations in sensitive habitats; collecting
seed of local genotypes of native plant species; closure of unauthorized
motorized routes and recreation concentrated use areas; monitoring of past
restoration projects and recommendations for sites not progressing as
anticipated; burned area rehabilitation; and riparian and spring
restoration.

*Lead Biological Field Technician (Wildlife) *

http://crcareers.thegreatbasininstitute.org/careers/careers.aspx?rf=ECOLOG=2017-ACI-011

In cooperation with Forest Service’s Spring Mountains National Recreation
Area (SMNRA), the Great Basin Institute is recruiting a Lead Wildlife
Technician to join our AmeriCorps program and lead two technicians in
multiple wildlife field surveys. The Field Lead will help to coordinate and
implement a variety of project-specific wildlife surveys and assist with
restoration projects. The Lead technician will direct crews while
conducting acoustic callback surveys and nest searches for two sensitive
raptor species, Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) and Flammulated Owl
(Psiloscops flammeolus), that are both known to occur in the region. Early
morning point count and nest surveys for migratory bird species will also
be conducted for two projects. Passive bat detection will be conducting by
setting and moving equipment throughout the project area. Wildlife
technicians will work with botanical technicians on habitat surveys for
sensitive butterfly species by identifying larval host and nectar plants.
Native seed collection for ongoing restoration projects will also be
conducted during the field season. On-the-job training in plant
identification will be provided. Opportunities to participate in training
(e.g. GIS, Wilderness 1st Aid) during the season may be available. Lead
Technicians will also be responsible for facilitating accurate completion
and documentation of project efforts.

The Field Technician must be able to work in difficult terrain that may
include steep, rocky slopes, areas of dense trees, and lower elevation
desert. Exposure to a variety of adverse weather conditions are likely with
average day time temperatures above 100 degrees, night time temperature as
low as 30, extreme sun exposure, and monsoonal rain events should all be
expected. This work is physically demanding and requires long hours of
off-trail hiking while conducting surveys. Survey protocols and times will
vary throughout the field season and crews must be able to adapt quickly to
working a variety of hours (night surveys for the Flammulated owl, dawn
surveys for nesting and breeding birds, daytime surveys for butterfly
larval host and nectar plants), while learning a variety of survey
protocols. Overnight camping will be required in some cases. Travel to
survey sites may require driving on narrow, winding, dirt roads for
distances up to 20 miles. While driving to and from survey sites, frequent
encounters with vehicles, hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders
should be expected on backcountry roads. Radio communication will be
necessary for emergencies and for communication with the Project Manager.

[ECOLOG-L] WA ST DNR AQUATIC LAND MANAGER JOB OPENING

[WOLF, MELODY (DNR)]

Aquatic Land Manager
Property and Acquisition Specialist 3
Recruitment # 2017-01-3781-00673

Salary Range: $3,907-$5,126 per month plus a comprehensive benefit package and 
retirement.  We also offer generous paid vacation and sick leave as well as 
paid state holidays.
Located in scenic Sedro-Woolley, Washington
Closes: February 13, 2017
Recruitment may be extended beyond the above date depending on the quantity and 
quality of applicants.

This exciting position helps preserve the environment while authorizing 
sustainable water-dependent uses of DNR-managed lands. The Land Manager is part 
of a seven-member team comprising the Orca Unit, based in Sedro-Woolley, which 
is responsible for management of state-owned aquatic lands (SOAL) in Whatcom, 
Skagit, Snohomish and San Juan counties, and Camano Island. SOAL includes 
tidelands and bedlands in marine areas, and shorelands and bedlands of larger 
rivers and lakes. Managing SOAL consists of negotiating, preparing, and 
managing aquatic land use authorizations including leases, licenses, and 
easements, on behalf of the citizens of the state. The Land Manager is expected 
to become the subject matter expert on marine and/or freshwater SOAL within an 
assigned portion of the Orca Unit's geographic area. Specific tasks include 
reviewing applications; determining ownership; overseeing property valuations; 
reviewing property surveys; coordinating with DNR environmental scientists and 
policy experts; performing site inspections; and resolving unauthorized uses. 
Additional duties include conducting stakeholder outreach, engaging in 
intergovernmental relationships, and providing information regarding department 
laws, policies, and guidance to the public and other government entities 
pertaining to lease management on SOAL.

The Land Manager must be able to work independently - planning, prioritizing, 
and coordinating his/her own workload with guidance and support from the 
District Manager. This position is classified as supervisory and could be 
assigned to supervise a Land Technician (Natural Resources Technician 3) 
immediately or at a later date.

Approximately 90% of the work is performed in an office environment and 
approximately 10% in the field.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
* Knowledge of and/or experience with contracts, business, or property 
management.
* Experience interpreting and implementing guidelines, regulations, and 
laws.
* Experience working with natural resource management/environmental 
protection issues.
* Experience managing multiple complex tasks, setting workload 
priorities, and completing tasks on time.
* Demonstrated ability to provide good customer service.
* Experience negotiating contentious issues in a respectful, responsive 
and informed manner.
* Demonstrated ability to speak and write clearly and succinctly, and 
use typical office software.
* Demonstrated ability to collaborate on internal and external issues 
in an active respectful, cooperative and professional manner.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:
* Knowledge and understanding of land use authorizations (leases, 
easements, licenses, etc.) and other legal instruments associated with land 
management.
* A Bachelor's Degree in natural resource management, real estate, 
forestry, geography, marine science, other science, engineering, land use and 
environmental planning, public policy, business or other relevant field; and 
two years of related professional work experience in one of the aforementioned 
specialties.
* Experience working for or with other environmental protection or 
natural resource agencies.
* Knowledge of environmental permitting/regulatory processes and rules.
* Experience with project management.
* Knowledge of and/or experience with environmental cleanup activities, 
such as MTCA and CERCLA.
* Experience supervising.
* A natural curiosity - someone who appreciates the how and the why, 
and who embraces new challenges.
* A proactive commitment to process improvement such as looking for 
ways to increase efficiency and effectiveness.
* Experience working in commodity industries (e.g., shellfish, 
minerals, timber, or agriculture).
* Experience working on public access, recreation, or parks issues.
* Experience operating small motorboats.

SPECIAL POSITION REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING CONDITIONS
* The incumbent in this position is required to work on, over, and 
around water and to traverse rough terrain by foot.
* The incumbent in this position is required to travel and may be 
required to spend up to two nights per month away from home.
* Must have a valid driver's license and have two years of driving 
experience. This position requires driving as an essential function.  Employees 
who drive for state business, whether in a state or 

[ECOLOG-L] JOB OPPORTUNITY: Field Ornithologist Tucson/Phoenix, AZ

[David Cerasale]

WestLand Resources Inc., is actively seeking an on-call Field Ornithologist
to support upcoming projects (expected to start in May) for our
environmental consulting practice. WestLand specializes in the technical and
procedural requirements necessary for compliance with the National
Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Clean Water Act, and the Endangered
Species Act. Our biological resources practice includes: development of
natural resources management plans; conducting ecological investigations and
base-line studies; and mitigation planning, design and implementation. This
position can be based in Tucson or Phoenix, with potential for travel
outside of Tucson/Phoenix up to 5 days per week.

Responsibilities:

The Field Ornithologist position will be responsible for surveying for
native fauna and reporting findings.

REQUIREMENTS

• Is a current holder of a USFWS permit to survey for Southwestern Willow
Flycatcher and/or Yellow-Billed Cuckoo

• Ability to work as a member of a cohesive team 

• Ability to work in a fast-paced and creative environment 

• Ability to work in extreme desert temperatures and rough terrain 

• Experience with Microsoft office products 

• Knowledge of Southwest fauna preferred 

• Bachelor's degree preferred

WestLand prides itself on providing a work environment that is relaxed and
collaborative, while supporting the highest standards for project delivery
and work product quality.  Our team approach to both project and staff
development naturally fosters a tight-knit environment of uniquely skilled
and experienced professionals, learning from and helping one another.

Westland is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be
an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite applications from all interested
parties including women, minorities, veterans and persons with disabilities.
 We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance
abuse testing

EOE AA M/F/Vet/Disability

[ECOLOG-L] JOB OPPORTUNITY: Field Botanist Tucson, AZ

[David Cerasale]

WestLand Resources Inc., is actively seeking on-call Field Botanists /
Technicians to support upcoming projects (expected to start in May) for our
environmental consulting practice. WestLand specializes in the technical and
procedural requirements necessary for compliance with the National
Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Clean Water Act, and the Endangered
Species Act. Our biological resources practice includes: development of
natural resources management plans; conducting ecological investigations and
base-line studies; and mitigation planning, design and implementation. This
position will be based in Tucson, with potential for travel outside of
Tucson up to 5 days per week.

Responsibilities:

The Field Botanist /Technician position will be responsible for surveying
for native fauna and flora, and reporting findings.

REQUIREMENTS
•Associate's degree in a biologically related field required. Bachelor's
degree preferred

•Prior experience with identification of Southwest plants required

•Ability to work as a member of a cohesive team

•Ability to work in a fast-paced and creative environment

•Ability to work in extreme desert temperatures and rough terrain

•Experience with Microsoft office products

•Knowledge of Southwest fauna preferred

WestLand prides itself on providing a work environment that is relaxed and
collaborative, while supporting the highest standards for project delivery
and work product quality.  Our team approach to both project and staff
development naturally fosters a tight-knit environment of uniquely skilled
and experienced professionals, learning from and helping one another.

Westland is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be
an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite applications from all interested
parties including women, minorities, veterans and persons with disabilities.
 We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance
abuse testing

EOE AA M/F/Vet/Disability

[ECOLOG-L] Research Assistantship in Urban Forest Ecology

[Lea R Johnson]

PhD / MS Research Assistantship in Urban Forest Ecology
at the University of Maryland, College Park

Support is available in the Johnson lab for a Doctoral (preferred) or
Master of Science student in urban forest ecology. The successful applicant
will join a project that supports urban forest management decision-making
by testing both ecological theory and science-based management approaches
in urban environments, synthesis of multiple long-term data sets describing
biophysical and social variables, and increasing information connectivity
networks. The successful applicant will assist in these efforts and develop
a thesis that contributes to the project. Demonstrated skills in plant
identification and/or analysis of large data sets are preferred, as is a
Master’s degree for those seeking to earn a doctorate.



The University of Maryland faculty includes experts in a broad range of
related fields, including urban forestry, landscape architecture, ecology,
soil science, environmental science and policy, and many specialties in
biology. The University is affiliated with the National Center for
Socio-Environmental Synthesis (http://www.sesync.org). Additional
information about UMD and the Plant Science Graduate Program of the
Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture can be found at
http://www.gradschool.umd.edu/
 and
http://psla.umd.edu/.



Send a CV, unofficial transcripts, and a personal statement detailing
research interests, motivation, and relevant experience via email. Review
of applications will begin immediately.  A summer 2017 start may be
possible for a highly qualified applicant.



Contact:

Lea R. Johnson, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor

Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture

College of Agriculture and Natural Resources

University of Maryland

2134 Plant Sciences Building

College Park, MD 20742

(301) 405-1602 Office

l...@umd.edu


https://psla.umd.edu/people/dr-lea-johnson

[ECOLOG-L] WA ST DNR FOREST ENGINEER OPPORTUNITY

[WOLF, MELODY (DNR)]

Washington State Department of Natural Resources
Forest Engineer - Timber Sales
Natural Resources Engineer 2
Recruitment #2017-01-5808-00822

LOCATION: Chehalis, Washington
SALARY RANGE:
$4,005 - $5,253 per month plus comprehensive benefit package and retirement.  
We also offer generous paid vacation leave, paid state holidays and sick leave.
CLOSES: February 26, 2017
Note: Recruitment may be extended after February 26th depending on the quantity 
and quality of the application pool.

Lewis District is actively seeking a Forest Engineer supporting the timber 
sales and forest roads programs. We're looking for someone who has strong 
written and verbal communication skills, the ability to create solutions, and 
loves to work in the woods. Our team of engineers and foresters offers a 
collaborative and dynamic environment where you can grow personally and 
professionally.

This Forest Engineer position maintains, designs, and coordinates forest road 
construction on state-managed lands while minimizing impacts to surrounding 
landscapes and waters. As a Forest Engineer you will work with foresters and 
biologists to create successful logging plans for DNR's timber sales program by 
analyzing logging system feasibility, and road infrastructure use and costs.

These Forest Engineer positions are seen as providing leadership development 
opportunities within the agency and can offer you broad exposure to all levels 
of management and professional development. For candidates willing to take the 
next step, opportunities include a development pathway toward management 
positions, professional engineering licensure, and/or executive developmental 
assignments.
DNR employees provide professional, forward-looking stewardship of our state 
lands, natural resources, and environment by providing leadership in creating a 
sustainable future for the Trusts and all Washington citizens.  If you are 
looking for a job that combines the need to challenge your analytical mind with 
your love of the outdoors, join our team in Lewis District and help us meet our 
goals while we help you meet your own.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
* Knowledge of forest engineering principles, techniques and 
application such as: logging systems, harvest system design, and road 
transportation design
* Knowledge of  ground and cable logging systems, and forest road 
construction equipment and use
* Use of engineering equipment, tools and software
* The ability to communicate effectively in verbal and written context
* The ability to work independently on assigned tasks
* The ability to develop, plan, implement and manage activities to meet 
targets and deadlines
* Knowledge of forest management objectives and  timber management 
planning
* Proven ability in computer applications such as Microsoft Word and 
Excel
* A documented history and continual commitment to safe work practices

This level of knowledge and skill is typically achieved after receiving:

* A Bachelor's degree in Forest Engineering, Civil Engineering, or 
Forest Operations Management.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:
* Knowledge of forest practice standards, rules and laws
* Knowledge of hydraulic structure design
* Experience using ArcGIS software
* Strong facilitation and negotiation skills
* The ability to conduct contract administration on forest and road 
maintenance projects.
* Familiar with the use of forest engineering tools such as GPS and 
laser measurement devices; and auto CAD, RoadEng and other engineering software 
programs

SPECIAL POSITION REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING CONDITIONS
* Ability to work on uneven terrain in all weather conditions.
* The incumbent in this position is required to travel.
* Must have a valid driver's license and have two years of driving 
experience. This position requires driving as an essential function.  Employees 
who drive for state business, whether in a state or privately-owned vehicle, 
are required to possess a valid license as defined in policy PO02-006 and abide 
by all other driver responsibility requirements.
* Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of hire.
* Must have a valid driver's license and have two years of driving 
experience.

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND HOW TO APPLY: 
http://agency.governmentjobs.com/dnr/default.cfm?action=viewJob=1644873
OR go to: www.dnr.wa.gov/employment/jobs 
and search for Forest Engineer - Timber Sales.

Questions?  Call Jon Tweedale at (360) 740-6848 or e-mail him at 
jon.tweed...@dnr.wa.gov

[ECOLOG-L] Neotropical Herpetology Class in Panama

[Peter Lahanas]

2017 SUMMER COURSE ANNOUNCEMENT (June 15-July 10)
 
FIELD COURSE IN NEOTROPICAL HERPETOLOGY (NEH B-17)
 
COURSE LOCATION: Bocas del Toro Biological Station, Boca del Drago, Isla
 
Colon, Republic of Panama.  The biological station is located on a hill
facing the Caribbean Sea.  Coral reef and seagrass ecosystems lie in front
of the station and lowland tropical rain forests surround us. This
juxtaposition of the two most biologically diverse ecosystems provides
tremendous opportunities for education and research. See:
http://www.itec-edu.org/ for details.
 
INSTRUCTOR: Dr. Peter N. Lahanas, Institute for Tropical Ecology and
Conservation (ITEC),  tel: 352-367-9128, email: laha...@itec-edu.org, web:
http://itec-edu.org/tropical-herpetology/,  Specialty: Neotropical
herpetology, forest ecology, animal behavior, biogeography, molecular
genetics of sea turtles.
 
COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course will emphasize the ecology, behavior,
biogeography and systematics of the amazingly diverse Neotropical
herpetofauna. The material covered is equivalent to a university upper-level
course in herpetology.  The course is divided into three parts.  During the
first few days students will become familiar with the many ecosystems found
in our area and with the trail systems during "orientation" walks.  The bulk
of the first 10 days will be spent learning field techniques, working with
collections and carrying out various group projects or exercises (see
below).  Midway through the course the entire station community will take a
field trip to the cloud forests of Boquete (see details below).  On
returning to the field station, students work on their individual research
projects and continue to receive lectures or other activities in the
evening.
 
Formal lectures:  Formal lectures will take place in the classroom and will
include the use of PowerPoint presentations and chalkboard. Lectures will
generally be given in the evening so that more daylight hours can be spent
in the field.  Lecture topics will include:
 
oHistory of Neotropical herpetology
oEvolution of amphibians and reptiles
oOverview and classification of amphibians
oOverview and classification of reptiles
oHistorical biogeographic relationships
oReproduction strategies and mating systems
oEcology, reproduction and genetics in marine turtles
oLife history strategies
oEvolution of polymorphism in poison dart frogs
oHerp-human interactions
oConservation issues
 
Informal Lectures:  Informal lectures will be provided periodically during
orientation walks, during group field projects or in discussion groups.
These will cover a wide variety of topics and will generally be prompted by
what we encounter in the field, or by the direction taken during group
discussions.
 
READINGS:  Readings corresponding to lecture subjects will be assigned in
the texts.  We will also read and critique papers brought by students and
faculty and additional readings may be assigned from time to time.
 
REQUIRED TEXTS:
Vitt, Laurie J. and Janalee P. Caldwell. 2014.  Herpetology.  4rd ed.
Elsevier and
Academic Press.
Köhler, Gunther. 2008. Reptiles of Central America, 2nd edition. Herpeton,
verlag
Elke Köhler.
Köhler, Gunther. 2011. Amphibians of Central America, 2nd edition. Herpeton,
verlag Elke Köhler.
 
NOTE: These books are expensive but will enhance your herping experience
during the course.  Copies are maintained in the field station library.
 
FIELD BOOK:  A water-proof field notebook will be required in the course.
The field book will contain all data related to group projects and
independent research project.  The field book should also contain all other
incidental observations such as species lists, behavioral notes, etc., and
contain detailed location information.
 
GROUP FIELD PROJECTS:  These projects, exercises, demonstrations and
excursions are designed by the faculty and worked on in groups of four or
six students.  The purpose of these projects is to familiarize students with
an array of field sampling techniques and equipment commonly used in field
studies.  With help from a faculty member, students set up projects, collect
data, and generally (depends on the project), analyze data, present the
results to the class, and write a report.
 
GROUP PROJECT TOPICS:
oForest night hikes
oPopulation biology in poison-dart frogs
oTail flicking behavior in geckos
oComparative leaf litter herpetofuana
oSoropta Beach, nesting leatherbacks
oCanopy herpetofauna (canopy access techniques)
oCave ecology, bats, rats & snakes
oSoropta canal, iguanas, caimans and crocodiles
oHerpetofuanal biodiversity analysis
oMainland herp excursion
oResource partitioning in frog breeding colonies
 
Individual Research Projects:  Working closely with faculty, students will
be responsible for designing and completing an original herpetological
research project of their choosing.  These projects will be carried out
during 

[ECOLOG-L] Summer Field Technician Jobs in Plant & Insect Ecology

[Greg Houseman]

We are seeking six, highly motivated individuals who are interested 
working as part of a large team of investigators examining diversity 
patterns in restored grasslands that are part of the Conservation 
Reserve Program (CRP).  In Kansas, the CRP program includes over 2 
million acres—much of which is re-established, native grassland. 
However, a dominant grazer is lacking on most of these sites despite the 
critical role that bison historically played in this grassland 
ecosystem. Our study will test how two CRP plantings (CP2 and CP25), 
which differ in the number of forbs planted, and the effects of periodic 
grazing influence the restoration of plant and insect abundance on 108 
grassland sites across the precipitation gradient in Kansas. 

The technicians will work as part of one, unified team that is 
subdivided into three field crews located in east, central, or western 
Kansas. Each field crew will work from mid-May to early-August.  The 
majority of the field effort will be spent in remote short- to tallgrass 
prairie habitats.  Primary tasks will include plant, insect, and soil 
sampling in the field, data entry, and sample preparation.  Applicants 
need to be able work under all weather conditions and be good team 
players.  Some experience with plant or insect sampling and/or 
identification is preferred, but dedicated, hardworking individuals will 
also be considered.  Starting pay is $10/hr plus free housing during the 
summer of field work.  

If interested, please contact Dr. Greg Houseman 
(greg.house...@wichita.edu) or Dr. Mary Liz Jameson 
(maryliz.jame...@gmail.com).

[ECOLOG-L] When State Parks Become Urban Parks -- additional request

[John A.]

Since this primarily an academic list, I would appreciate recommendations 
to other lists which might have more of a focus on local conservation and 
community action.


 Thank you,


 J. A.

[ECOLOG-L] Rhodes College, Assistant Professor in Biology (3-year renewable position)

[Sarah Boyle]

*Assistant Professor in Biology*



The Department of Biology  at Rhodes
College  seeks qualified applicants for a *three-year
renewable* faculty position to begin in August of 2017.  Candidates must
have a Ph.D. in a field of biology and a strong interest in engaging
students at the undergraduate level.  We are especially seeking a broadly
trained biologist whose background complements that of existing faculty.
The Department invites candidates who can contribute to the goal of
diversifying our faculty. The annual teaching responsibility of six courses
per year (labs are counted as a full course) will normally entail four
introductory lab sections covering cellular and organismal topics, plus
other courses that may include an introductory lecture course in the area
most appropriate for the candidate’s background and experience, an
upper-level course, and a senior seminar in the candidate’s specialty. The
position also carries departmental service duties related to the
introductory lab offerings.  These include managing instructional materials
and student enrollments, and working with staff and student teaching
assistants who prepare the labs.  The candidate will also have the
opportunity to work with other faculty members in developing new laboratory
exercises.



Although an active research program is not a requirement of the position,
some support for research is available.  Rhodes’ location provides
opportunities for research collaboration with investigators at several
institutions, including St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the
University of Tennessee Health Science Center, and the Memphis Zoo and
Aquarium.



All application materials must be submitted online. Review of applications
will begin on February 24, 2017 and will continue until the position is
filled. Completed applications will include a cover letter, a curriculum
vitae, a statement of teaching philosophy a statement of current or
previous research activity, copies of graduate and undergraduate
transcripts, and three letters of recommendation. Please address in your
cover letter your interest in teaching at a liberal arts college and how
your experiences with teaching, scholarship, and/or service might
contribute to a college community that includes a commitment to diversity
as one of its core values particularly as it pertains to the study of
Biology. The online application system will solicit letters of
recommendation electronically from the candidate’s recommenders, once their
contact information has been entered by the candidate.



Please apply online at jobs.rhodes.edu

For additional information regarding the position, please contact
Dr. Carolyn Jaslow, Chair of the Search Committee, at cjas...@rhodes.edu.



Founded in 1848, Rhodes College is a highly selective, private,
residential, undergraduate liberal arts college, located in Memphis,
Tennessee. We aspire to graduate students with a lifelong passion for
learning, a compassion for others, and the ability to translate academic
study and personal concern into effective leadership and action in their
communities and the world. We encourage applications from candidates
interested in helping us achieve this vision.



Rhodes College values an inclusive and welcoming environment. We are an
equal opportunity employer committed to diversity
 in the workforce.



Memphis has a metropolitan population of over one million and provides
multiple opportunities for research and for cultural and recreational
activities. Read more about Memphis at
http://www.rhodes.edu/content/our-city.

[ECOLOG-L] Two PhD positions in Ecology at Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences

[Erik Ockinger]

We are seeking candidates for two PhD student positions in Ecology at 
Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) in Uppsala.
 
1)  Greener infrastructure: Management of linear infrastructure rights-
of-way for biodiversity and landscape connectivity. 
http://www.slu.se/en/education/programmes-courses/postgraduate-studies/new-
phd-student/Read-more/?sprak=e=1141.
2)  Effects of wetland restoration on bird diversity - a landscape 
approach. http://www.slu.se/en/education/programmes-courses/postgraduate-
studies/new-phd-student/Read-more/?sprak=e=1132
  
Erik Öckinger & Tomas Pärt

[ECOLOG-L] JOBS: Field crew leaders/members in Sierra Nevada forest, vegetation, and fire ecology, UC Davis

[Rebecca B Wayman]

Position Titles:
Seasonal Field Crew Leaders and Seasonal Field Crew Members in Forest, 
Vegetation, and Fire Ecology

Employer:
University of California, Davis

Location:
Multiple duty stations in the Sierra Nevada, California.

Dates:
Application deadline: February 22, 2017
Start date: May 24
End date: mid-September to late-October, TBD

Compensation:
$16 - $21.25 per hour depending on experience, plus options for health insurance

Overview:
Up to three field crews (one crew leader and one to two crew members per crew) 
are needed to collect ecological data related to forests, vegetation, and 
wildfire for vegetation inventory and monitoring projects in support of 
ecological research on public lands. Work will be located in the Sierra Nevada 
of California, primarily on national forest lands. The field crew leaders and 
members will collect technical data on forest stand structure, tree mortality, 
species diversity, vegetation regeneration, and landscape characteristics at 
remote field sites. The crew leaders will each supervise a field crew and will 
be responsible for equipment and data management throughout the season. US 
Forest Service ecologists and/or UC Davis researchers from the lab of Dr. Hugh 
Safford will supervise the field crew leaders but will only occasionally 
accompany the crews during field sampling.

More Information:
Detailed position information and complete application instructions are posted 
in a file titled "2017_PositionDescription_UCD_Crew-lead-member_2017-0207.pdf" 
at the link below.

https://ucdavis.box.com/s/5r35zp53g3w25yoy45arc0mha5ejsvc6


Thanks for your interest!


Rebecca Wayman

Associate Specialist (Forest and Fire Ecology)

Dept. of Environmental Science and Policy

University of California, Davis

rbway...@ucdavis.edu

[ECOLOG-L] 2017 ESA Annual Meeting: Submit an Abstract for Portland!

[Jennifer Riem]

2017 ESA Annual Meeting: Submit an Abstract for Portland!
Deadline: February 23 at 5:00 PM Eastern (2:00 PM Pacific)

We invite contributed abstracts (talks and posters) for ESA's 2017 Annual 
Meeting in Portland, Oregon.

This year's theme is "Linking biodiversity, material cycling and ecosystem 
services in a changing world."

Although abstract proposals related to the meeting's theme are encouraged, any 
timely and coherent
subject of broad interest to ecologists will be considered.

Abstracts must be submitted through the online form by Thursday, February 23 at 
5:00 PM Eastern Time
(2:00 Pacific). No late or emailed abstracts will be considered.

For more information visit: http://www.esa.org/portland/

If you have any questions, please contact the Program Chair, Christopher Swan
(chris.s...@umbc.edu) or the Science Programs 
Coordinator, Jennifer Riem (jenni...@esa.org).

Our society is its members. Have you renewed? 
www.esa.org/joinrenew

[ECOLOG-L] NEW COURSE - Coding, DataManagement, Shiny applications, RStudio, for Ecologists and Evolutionary Biologists

[Oliver Hooker]

Coding, data management, and Shiny applications using RStudio for 
evolutionary biologists and ecologists (CDSR01)

http://www.prstatistics.com/course/coding-data-management-and-shiny-
applications-using-rstudio-for-evolutionary-biologists-and-ecologists-
cdsr01/

This course will run from the 15th - 19th May 2017 at SCENE field station, 
Loch Lomond, Scotland.

Course overview:
The course will introduce programming logic using the R syntax. The 
participants will be able to solve problems involving heterogeneous 
biological datasets and the combined use of different statistical packages, 
so the advantages of learning programming skills can be demonstrated. The 
RMarkdown syntax will be used to illustrate the advantages of literate 
programming and the possibilities of code sharing and archiving. In the 
sequence, participants will learn how to design relational databases (RDB) 
which can be used to manage and analyse large biological datasets. They 
will learn the basics of the SQL language and how to use it with R with the 
package {RMySQL}. To finalise, they will use the Shiny tool (R Studio) to 
build interactive applications to analyse and display data depending on 
user inputs. Throughout the course we will emphasise data, code and 
analyses best practices that could foster reproducibility and transparency 
in science, and the long-term availability of scientific data. At the end 
of the course the participants are expected to be able to develop small, 
tailored applications, to read and analyse datasets using a variety of 
statistics tools.

Intended Audience:
Researchers and postgraduate students working with in evolutionary biology 
and ecological data who want to have more autonomy and flexibility in their 
quantitative analyses, and need to access and analyse large datasets with R.

Monday 15th – Classes from 09:00 to 17:00
Module 1: Programming Logic
R syntax (Variable types – operators – conditionals – loops – writing 
functions)
Programming and commenting code with RMarkdown

Tuesday 16th – Classes from 09:00 to 17:00
Module 2: Data structures
R syntax (arrays, lists, data frames, matrices)
Data wrangling with {dplyr} and {tidyr}; the {ff} package and data tables 
for large datasets (e.g. transcriptomics; whole-genome data)
Best practices of data acquisition, organization and storage

Wednesday 17th – Classes from 09:00 to 17:00
Module 3: Relational databases
Introduction to the SQL language and MySQL (open-source RDB freeware)
Accessing and analysing large datasets using the package {RMySQL}
As an example, we will combine DNA sequence datasets with IUCN Red List 
data illustrate the use of RDB to biological datasets.

Thursday 18th – Classes from 09:00 to 17:00
Module 4: Introduction to Shiny (R Studio)
Shiny – Server and user interface commands
As an example we will use Shiny to develop a small application where users 
can select different species and genes and run/visualize phylogenetic trees 
using {ape} running in the background.

Friday 19th  – Classes from 09:00 to 16:00
Module 5: Wrapping-up
Development and presentation of individual projects combining data 
wrangling skills and user inputs using Shiny (R Studio)

Teaching Format:
The course will be highly practical, with a series of hands-on, step-by-
step, problem-solving exercises, combining the different tools to solve 
ecological and evolutionary biology problems. The participants are invited 
to think of a problem that requires programming skills to be solved, and 
can bring their own data for a case-study. At the end of each day the 
participants will have time to work on their on projects and apply the 
skills learned on that day.

We offer two packages
COURSE ONLY – Includes lunch and refreshments.
ALL INCLUSIVE – Includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, refreshments, minibus to 
and from meeting point and accommodation. Accommodation is multiple 
occupancy (max 3 people) single sex en-suite rooms. Arrival Sunday 14th May 
and departure Friday 19th May PM.

Please send enquiries to oliverhoo...@prstatistics.com or visit 
www.prstatistics.com for more details.

Other relevant upcoming courses are as follows

1.  ADVANCED PYTHON FOR BIOLOGISTS (February 2017) #APYB
http://www.prstatistics.com/course/advanced-python-biologists-apyb01/

2.  STABLE ISOTOPE MIXING MODELS USING SIAR, SIBER AND MIXSIAR USING R 
(February 2017) #SIMM
http://www.prstatistics.com/course/stable-isotope-mixing-models-using-r-
simm03/

3.  NETWORK ANAYLSIS FOR ECOLOGISTS USING R (March 2017) #NTWA
http://www.prstatistics.com/course/network-analysis-ecologists-ntwa01/

4.  ADVANCES IN MULTIVARIATE ANALYSIS OF SPATIAL ECOLOGICAL DATA (April 
2017) #MVSP
http://www.prstatistics.com/course/advances-in-spatial-analysis-of-
multivariate-ecological-data-theory-and-practice-mvsp02/

5.  ADVANCING IN STATISTICAL MODELLING USING R (April 2017) #ADVR
http://www.prstatistics.com/course/advancing-statistical-modelling-using-r-
advr06/

6.  CODING, 

[ECOLOG-L] Clemson-USDA National Needs PhD Fellowship

[Amy Lawton-Rauh]

Clemson University is proud to invite applications for PhD fellowships in 
"Computationally Intensive Genomics Analysis and Application in Agriculture"
For more information, please visit the following website:

www.clemsonnationalneedsfellows.org

Cheers, Amy

Amy Lawton-Rauh, PhD   Associate Professor, Department of Genetics and 
Biochemistry; Faculty Senate Vice President/President-Elect
Clemson University   316 Biosystems Research Complex, 105 Collings Drive, 
Clemson SC 29634-0318
Office +1.864.656.1507 | Skype amy.lawton.rauh | 
am...@clemson.edu | popquantgenomics.org | 
twitter.com/alawtonrauh|  | 
clemson.edu/genbiochem | 
rosbreed.org/about | 
clemson.edu/glimpse/?p=5260

[ECOLOG-L] Postdoc in Ecological Modelling, Germany

[Kerstin Wiegand]

The Department of Ecosystem Modelling at the 
Büsgen Institute of the Georg August University 
Göttingen is offering a position as a 
Postdoctoral Researcher. The position will be 
limited to 31 months and should be filled as soon 
as possible. The regular working hours will be 
(currently) 39.8 hours per week. Salary: Pay 
grade 100% TVL 13 of German state-regulated 
public service salary scale. Successful 
applicants are free to pursue their own research 
program within the general interests of the 
Ecosystem Modelling group. We develop, implement 
and analyze simulation models and methods of 
spatial statistics. We focus on basic ecological 
research, but we also address questions at the 
interface of ecology and socio-economy.
Requirements: MSc degree or equivalent in 
ecology/biology, agriculture or related 
discipline; Excellent knowledge in ecological 
modelling, that is to say in the development, 
programming, and analysis of simulation models; 
Good command of statistics (preferably in R) and 
mathematics; Very good publication record; 
Willingness to teach (teaching load flexible), to 
collaborate in existing projects, and to 
supervise master and doctoral students; Excellent 
command of the English and German language.
Desirable: Doctoral degree; Experience in 
research into socio-economics, tropical ecology, 
or biodiversity and ecosystem functioning;  Knowledge in spatial statistics.
The University of Göttingen is an equal 
opportunities employer and places particular 
emphasis on fostering career opportunities for 
women. Qualified women are therefore strongly 
encouraged to apply as they are underrepresented 
in this field. The university has committed 
itself to being a family-friendly institution and 
supports their employees in balancing work and 
family life. The mission of the University is to 
employ a greater number of severely disabled 
persons. Applications from severely disabled 
persons with equivalent qualifications will be 
given preference. Applicants should upload a 
single pdf-file containing their CV, a short 
summary of research interests, and the names 
(with email address) of at least two referees to 
http://s-lotus.gwdg.de/uni/ufom/PD_EcoMod2017.nsf/application
as soon as possible, but latest March 1, 2017. If 
you have any questions, please contact Kerstin 
Wiegand (e-mail: kwiegan1(at)uni-goettingen.de). 
Information about the Ecosystem Modelling group 
can be found at http://www.uni-goettingen.de/EcoMod.html




___
Kerstin Wiegand
Professor of Ecosystem Modelling
www.uni-goettingen.de/EcoMod.html
Phone (direct) +49-551-39 10121
Phone (office) +49-551-39 33464 

[ECOLOG-L] PhD Position at the Warnell School, University of Georgia

[Puneet Dwivedi]

A fully funded four year position for an exceptional doctoral student is 
available at the Dwivedi Forest Sustainability Lab at the University of 
Georgia's Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources. The incoming 
student is expected to develop an economic model for analyzing the potential 
impacts of water markets on land use changes in South Georgia and North 
Florida. More details of the position are available at: 
http://forestsustainabilitylab.uga.edu/announcements.html. Interested 
candidates are encouraged to directly contact Dr. Puneet Dwivedi 
(pune...@uga.edu) with a cover letter, curriculum vitae, transcripts, and 
writing samples before applying formally. Applications will be reviewed on 
first come first serve basis.

Sincerely,
Puneet Dwivedi, PhD
Assistant Professor (Sustainability Sciences)
Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources
University of Georgia
180 E Green St Athens, GA

[ECOLOG-L] Scientists who do public outreach - AAAS needs your help!

[Karen Peterman]

Hello. We are currently asking for help from scientists who have done
public engagement with science activities in the past year. Please help us
validate a scale designed to measure your perceptions of the public who
attended your most recent public engagement activity. Click the link below
to help validate the scale (it should take only 15 minutes). For more
details, keep reading below.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/AAASPublicPerceptions

In 2015, AAAS (the American Association for the Advancement of Science)
began a project to document and study public engagement with science (PES).
As part of this project, a series of scales is being developed to study
both the reasons that scientists choose to do public engagement and the
short-term impact of those experiences. The third of these scales is ready
for testing, and we need 300 scientists to help us validate the scale by
responding to the items.


This scale was designed for scientists who have done public engagement with
science in the past year. The questions focus on your perceptions of the
public who attended your last PES activity. Feel free to share the link
with others in your network who also do public engagement with science.


Thank you, in advance, for your help!

-- 
Karen Peterman Consulting, Co.
Karen Peterman, Ph.D.
Durham, NC
(919) 627-2676
Visit online: www.consultkp.com

[ECOLOG-L] Job Announcement: Greenhouse Research Technician, WI

[Kern, Christel C -FS]

Greenhouse Research Assistantships Available for Summer 2017

Prescribed fire effects on seedbanks of pine barrens



Department of Forestry, Michigan State University

and USDA Forest Service Northern Research Station



Position description: The Department of Forestry at Michigan State University, 
in collaboration with USDA Forest Service Northern Research Station, is seeking 
a highly motivated seasonal research technician for Summer 2017 to assist with 
a project investigating soil heating processes and the effects of soil heating 
on soil carbon, nutrients, seedbanks and hardwood regeneration in the 
Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. The technician will be primarily 
responsible for maintaining the field-collected soil samples in a seed bank 
germination greenhouse study near Rhinelander, WI, U.S.A. The technician will 
have opportunity to also participate in field activities. The technician will 
be co-supervised by a Project Manager and Research Scientist.  The technician 
will be trained on the job and responsible for following safety and study 
protocols. In addition, opportunity exists for technician to pursue mentored 
independent research related to the overall project goals. The abstract for the 
project is available here: 
http://www.firescience.gov/JFSP_advanced_search_results_detail.cfm?jdbid=%24%26J3%3CW%40%2
 0%20%0A



Qualifications: The successful applicants will have the following knowledge, 
skills and abilities: 1) previous greenhouse experience as a technician; 2) 
strong organization and communication skills; 3) demonstrated ability to work 
well independently and in a team environment; 4) demonstrated commitment to 
completing work with a high level of initiative, skill and professionalism; 5) 
a high aptitude for adverse environmental conditions; and 6) possession of a 
valid US driver's license. We desire the technician to have experience in plant 
identification in the upper Lake States region, specifically northern dry 
forests and pine barrens.



Working conditions: This position will be largely greenhouse-based. In the 
greenhouse, the technician is responsible for providing own gear, including 
supportive, closed-toe shoes, to accommodate long periods of standing and the 
warm, humid conditions of a greenhouse.  For occasional field work, the 
conditions may include exposure to inclement weather, full sun, biting insects, 
and poison ivy and walking over uneven terrain; lifting and carrying field 
packs weighing up to 40 lb.; bending, squatting, kneeling, sitting or standing 
for prolonged periods of time; operating measurement or sampling equipment with 
a strong level of fine motor skills; and performing repetitive tasks with a 
high level of precision and accuracy. Personal protective equipment necessary 
for performing the position will be provided. The technician will be 
responsible for providing their own personal field gear (appropriate field 
clothing, footwear, daypack, etc.).


Salary: Hourly wage commensurate with experience, for 40 hours/week starting 
approximately June 5, 2017 and continuing for approximately 4.5 months. We may 
be able to accommodate earlier or later start & end dates with advance 
notification (please specify any start/end date requests in your cover letter).

Location: The position is located near Rhinelander, WI. Occasional overnight 
travel may be required to perform field measurements in Ashland, WI.

Housing: Housing is not provided.  Reasonable dormitory accommodations are 
available at a University of Wisconsin field station 20 minutes north of the 
office location.

To Apply: Applicants should email as a single PDF: 1) a letter of interest 
detailing your qualifications for the position and the dates of your 
availability, 2) resume/CV with list of relevant coursework, and 3) a list of 
three professional references with contact information (institution, email 
address, phone number), to Dr. Christel Kern at 
cck...@fs.fed.us . Please name your file as: 
LastnameFirstname_Application_MMDD.

Application deadline: Applications will be considered on a rolling basis 
beginning February 15, 2017 so you are encouraged to apply as early as possible.



For more information: Contact Dr. Christel Kern at cck...@fs.fed.us or Dr. 
Jessica Miesel at miese...@msu.edu.





This electronic message contains information generated by the USDA solely for 
the intended recipients. Any unauthorized interception of this message or the 
use or disclosure of the information it contains may violate the law and 
subject the violator to civil or criminal penalties. If you believe you have 
received this message in error, please notify the sender and delete the email 
immediately.

[ECOLOG-L] Position – Undergraduate Research Assistant: Forest Restoration and Fire Management

[Iris Allen]

An undergraduate research assistant position is available in the 
Quantitative Forest Management laboratory in the Division of Forestry 
and Natural Resources at West Virginia University.

The undergraduate research assistant will assist a master’s student with 
completing field work for a forest restoration project. The field work 
will be conducted in the mixed conifer forests of the Sierra Nevada in 
Northern California, with majority of time spent in the Eldorado 
National Forest. The main objective of the project is to evaluate post 
fire restoration efforts made after the 2004 Power Fire. This project 
will help identify successful restoration techniques to reestablish 
open, old growth conditions in the Sierra Nevada.

Field Work responsibilities will include collecting forest inventory 
data, soil samples, vegetation surveys, basic ecophysiological data, and 
micro-environmental variables. A variety of equipment will be used 
including, basic field work items (clinometer, d-tape, etc.) and 
potentially more advanced machines (ceptometer, gas exchange analyzer, 
etc.). Experience with more advanced equipment is appreciated, but not 
necessary. 

This position will be for about a 3-month period during the summer from 
May 2017 to August 2017. Work will average 40 hrs/week. The salary 
offered will depend on prior experience. Travel to California, along 
with housing and a small food stipend will be provided. 

Qualifications: All junior or senior students currently enrolled in an 
academic program related to forestry, biology, ecology, environmental 
sciences, or similarly related natural resource fields are encouraged to 
apply. Applicants should be highly self-motivated and possess a strong 
work ethic. A background or strong interest in conducting field-based 
research is desirable. A cumulative GPA greater than 3.0 in 
undergraduate coursework is preferable. Candidates must be willing and 
able to travel long distances, camp outdoors on occasion, do physically 
demanding work, and work in hot or otherwise uncomfortable conditions. 
Applicants must possess a valid driver’s license. 

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information of two 
references. Applications will be considered immediately and continue 
until the position is filled. To ensure full consideration please submit 
material by February 24, 2017. For additional information or to submit 
application material, please contact Iris Allen (ica0...@mix.wvu.edu).